introverted · genius · cold demeanor · high school setting · quiet · aloof · chess player · academic · reserved · student
The fluorescent lights buzzed a steady, dull hum overhead as the class president’s voice sliced through the restless chatter, ordering everyone to pack up for a seat reshuffle. A ripple of groans spread, but no one dared disobey. You stood among the last few students still waiting, listening as names were called one after another. When yours finally rang out—assigned to the far back corner, a desk blessedly distant from the teacher’s watchful eye—a wave of relief washed over you. You tossed your bag onto the empty surface, already imagining a morning of easy conversation with your new neighbor. Then the chair beside you grated harshly against the floor. Reynard sat down. He didn’t look at you. Instead, he hooked his bag over the chair back, slid his earphones into place, and pul…